California in Brief / RANCHO PALOS VERDES

Trump's ficus trees are facing removal

Trump National Golf Course can't keep its new ficus trees because they violate city permits and block neighbors' views, according to the City Council.

Donald Trump had the trees planted earlier this year to block golfers' views of what he claims are run-down properties, then asked the council for permission. On Tuesday, the council voted not to allow the trees because Trump had agreed to try to use native, drought-resistant plants on the golf course, said Greg Pfost, the city's deputy director for planning. The council also objected to the 12- and 6-foot-high ficus blocking neighbors' views, he said.

Pfost is drafting a resolution directing Trump to remove the trees. He said the City Council is scheduled to vote on the resolution Dec. 18.